Chris Jay: “Rain” – a statement of romantic intent

The Texan artist Chris Jay, who specializes in a blend of soul, pop and EDM is a class act, using old-fashioned sensuality to sell his image rather than raunchy sex like some of his contemporaries. His latest track, “Rain”, is no exception. The track is a statement of intent, as it sounds like Jay has found exactly where he wants his sound to be. Setting the tone for a track that interweaves a personal aura of bliss and longing.

Chris Jay

Even when he’s in his comfort zone of singing about love, the production pushes the song into a bitter-sweet melancholy state, surrounding the excellent arrangement with a jagged beat, while the glistening keys blossom around Jay’s emotionally rich vocal.

Though slow and meandering, the track has its own kind of burning intensity. Chris Jay’s demonstration of affection isn’t overly saccharine. The soul singer reflects on intimacy in a way that’s meaningful, but modern. “Rain” is very much set in the 21st century.

His ability to convincingly convey the guy-in-love energy comes across honestly, probably because Jay truly sounds as if he’s singing via his own experiences. Unlike some of his peers, he doesn’t seem distracted by a picture perfect idea of what companionship should be like.

This attitude pays off on this sultry, slow-burning number, which sees the artist reinforcing the nature and belief in the foundations of his relationship with the girl in question.

On “Rain”, the singer sounds like he’s performing directly to listeners from his own front room. Chris Jay has this effect across the production, which he himself curated, and it enhances the whole recording.

Having said all that, the project isn’t lazily cozy…it’s somewhat edgy, but’s comfortable. As R&B ballads were meant to be. Clearly, it’s Jay’s desire to keep evolving that makes “Rain” as good as it is. Because now, after various releases, he is ready to go deeper than he’s ever been before, and when he does, the results are both compelling and irresistible.

“Rain” perfectly captures crucial messages of love and hope, its simple melody complimenting Chris Jay’s smooth vocals. The romance that permeates this song is obvious in Jay’s voice, but it seems natural rather than idealized, only enhancing the beauty of it. The musical backing really fuels the soulful energy, especially in the choruses, making this track likely to give you the chills.